Inhibition of corneal neovascularization by a peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma ligand.

Purpose: To determine the efficacy of the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma agonist, pioglitazone, in inhibiting corneal neovascularization.

Methods: Twenty-six adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into three groups. Each group received intrastromal polymer micropellets containing one of the following: Group 1, no active ingredient (n=10); Group 2, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) (n=7); Group 3, VEGF and pioglitazone (n=9).